This document highlights key points found in the Ontario Regulation 181/98, part of which you will find under the PDF file entitled “Parent’s Rights in Special Education”.

1. Parents have the right to be present at all committee discussions concerning the student and when the committee’s identification and placement decisions are made.
2. Parents have the right to also have a representative present at the discussion.
3. Notice of meetings should be sent 10 days prior to the actual meeting date.
4. An Individual Education Plan (IEP) is a legal, binding document which must be followed. It should include specific educational expectations for the student; an outline of the special education program and services to be received; and what methods will be used to track the progress will be reviewed.
5. Every Board must be able to provide parents with a guide that:
   1. explains function of committees involved
   2. procedures that must follow in identifying students as exceptional and definitions of exceptionalities
   3. explain duties of committee to describe strengths and needs
   4. explain role of the special education appeal board
   5. list local organizations
   6. indicates the board’s special education programs and services
   7. explains that no committee decision can be implemented unless
      1. parents consent to decision or
      2. no appeal has been filed within the 15 day time limit after decision
6. When making a decision on the placement (classroom setting) of the student the committee must consider student’s needs and parental preferences.
7. Parents must receive a written notification of the decisions as the end of the meeting or soon thereafter.
8. If you don’t agree with the IEP or IPRC, you do not have to sign it at the time of the meeting. You can request more time to study it. Section 19, 181/98 states that you have 15 days to appeal recommendations and request another meeting.
9. If you do not appeal within the 15 day period, then the Board will implement the plan within 30 days after it was reviewed by parent and pupil, even if you have not signed it.